Commencement 2012

Anacapa’s graduation celebrated the twelve members of the Class of 2012 at a commencement ceremony on June 8th at the Santa Barbara Woman’s Club (Rockwood), but the graduating seniors were not the only ones in the spotlight. Following tradition, Anacapa recognized the accomplishments of the entire student body during the all-school awards ceremony.

After an outdoor patio reception for friends and families, guests moved indoors where Suzie Sichi, head of faculty, presided over the program. Anacapa parents, grandparents, alumni, and trustees were recognized and appreciated for their important contributions to the school community.

After headmaster Gordon Sichi and Board of Trustees chairman David Gore gave warm welcomes, the faculty recognized the many academic achievements of Anacapa’s students during the 2011-2012 school year. It was obvious that teachers had done a good job of keeping second semester grades to themselves, because the three honor rolls (Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude) were announced amidst some squeals of surprise and much enthusiastic applause.

Faculty members then presented their Academic Achievement Awards, recognizing special accomplishments from outstanding achievement to dedication and perseverance in each academic discipline. Other award winners were senior Brenda Gutierrez (Jessica Bower Volunteer of the Year Award), Julia Alcerro (Parent Outstanding Service Award), and math teacher Bryan Anderson and senior Douglas Throop (Spirit of Anacapa).

While the seniors slipped into their caps and gowns, the audience enjoyed two slide shows—one featuring the End-of-the-Year Trip to Sacramento and river rafting on the American River and the other spotlighting the graduates. Afterward, the seniors marched in to receive their diplomas and give their individual talks to a packed house of almost 300.

AWARDS:

Jessica Bower Volunteer of the Year Award (This award, named for a former Anacapa student, honors the Anacapa student with the highest level of volunteer service to both the school community and the greater community.) Winner: Brenda Gutierrez (Senior) — In addition to her own record of volunteerism, Brenda was a driving force behind Anacapa’s “30 Service Projects to Celebrate 30 Years” as the school celebrated its 30th anniversary year.

Parent Outstanding Service Award
Winner: Julia Alcerro, parent of a 7th grader and an 11th grader // Served on the school’s Parent Leadership Committee, auction planning, and support for numerous other school activities and events

Spirit of Anacapa
The recipients of this award embody the core values of the school community.
Winners: Bryan Anderson (Math Teacher) and Douglas Throop (12)

Academic Achievement
These awards are given by faculty to Upper School students who exemplified academic achievement in a particular course.